2026 Planting Guide
Spring cropWhen to Plant Lettuce in Illinois
Complete guide to growing lettuce in Illinois with optimal planting dates, recommended varieties, soil requirements, pest management, and harvest timing. Data sourced from USDA and state extension services.
Monthly Planting Calendar
Visual overview of the lettuce growing season in Illinois. Red diamond markers indicate frost date boundaries.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
40°F (4°C) minimum
Growing Period
45-70 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
April 20
Wait until after this date
First Fall Frost
October 12
Harvest before this date
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing lettuce in Illinois.
January - March
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
April
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
May - July
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
August - December
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
Best Lettuce Varieties for Illinois
These varieties have proven performance in Illinois's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Buttercrunch | Illinois climate |
| 2 | Romaine | Illinois climate |
| 3 | Black Seeded Simpson | Illinois climate |
| 4 | Green Star | Illinois climate |
Growing Tips for Illinois
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Illinois farmers.
Spring and fall crops both work
Succession sow every 2 weeks
Shade cloth can extend spring harvest
Pest & Disease Watch
Monitor for these threats throughout the growing season. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is recommended.
Aphids
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Slugs
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Loopers
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Leaf miners
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Downy mildew
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Companion Planting
These plants grow well alongside lettuce, improving pest control, pollination, and nutrient availability.
Frost Dates
Last Spring Frost
April 20
Wait until after this date before planting frost-sensitive crops outdoors.
First Fall Frost
October 12
Plan to complete harvest of warm-season crops before this date arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant lettuce in Illinois?
The optimal planting window for lettuce in Illinois is April 5 to May 10. Soil temperature should reach at least 40°F (4°C) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 45-70 days.
What varieties of lettuce grow best in Illinois?
The best varieties for Illinois include Buttercrunch, Romaine, Black Seeded Simpson, Green Star. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest lettuce in Illinois?
The harvest window for lettuce in Illinois is typically May 20 to July 10. The crop takes 45-70 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from USDA NASS Crop Planting Dates, Illinois Cooperative Extension Service, and NOAA frost date records. Last updated: March 2026.
Planting dates are averages and may vary by county, elevation, and local microclimate. Always consult your local extension office for the most precise recommendations.